Michael Traud, EdD, is an associate teaching professor and program director for Drexel University’s Department of Food and Hospitality Management. Traud taught with Drexel for five years as an adjunct while working in professional kitchens and two years as a full-time instructor prior to accepting a position as program director in 2013. He teaches both culinary arts and hospitality management courses while also focusing on curriculum development, program policies and industry partnerships.

He is the founder and event chair for the annual Philly Chef Conference at Drexel University. Traud maintains close industry ties with the restaurant and hospitality community in Philadelphia. By doing so, he is able to facilitate tremendous opportunities for students to obtain rewarding practical experiences and personal connections during their studies.

Traud attended law school and practiced law before going back to complete his culinary degree at Johnson and Wales. His restaurant career involved positions working for James Beard award winning chefs Jeff Michaud (Osteria) and Marc Vetri (Vetri). He has also gained a global perspective on his craft by spending time cooking in Italy and South Korea.

Professional Society

Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association, Pennsylvania Bar Association

Selected Publications

Grant participation:

Korean Food Foundation, PA Department of Agriculture

Specialization

• Italian Cuisine
• Korean Cuisine
• Hospitality Law

EdD, Educational Leadership and Management, 2016
School of Education
Drexel University
Philadelphia, PA

Associate Degree, Culinary Arts, 2006
Johnson & Wales University
Charlotte, NC

Juris Doctorate, 2002
Villanova School of Law
Villanova, PA

Bachelor of Arts, History, 1999
Ursinus College
Collegeville, PA